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Request for Proposals Brochure and Brand Development

Brochure and Brand Development Services, Cobo Center RFP#11-500/ 7.13.2011 of 28

Cobo Center Request for Proposals

for

Brochure and Brand Development Services

www.cobocenter.com www.drcfa.org

RFP # 11-‐500

Date Issued: July 13, 2011

Proposal Due Date: Monday, August 12, 2011



TABLE OF CONTENTS Description Page 1. INTRODUCTION 3 1(A) RFP Scope and Purpose 3 1(B) Background 4 1(C) Budget 5 1(D) Proposal Due Date 5 2. INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION 6 2(A) Timeline 6 2(B) Contact Information 7 2(C) Letter of Intent 7 2(D) Pre-‐Proposal Meeting 7 2(E) Questions and Amendments 8 2(F) Notices and Response Criteria 8 2(G) RFP Cover Sheet 12 2(H) Non-‐Collusion Certification 13 2(I) No Response Form 14 2(J) RFP Evaluation Criteria 15 3. SCOPE OF SERVICES 16 3(A) Audience 16 3(B) Look, Feel & Layout 16 3(C) Tools & Functionalities 17 4. SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS 18 4(A) Table of Contents 18 4(B) Introduction 18 4(C) Respondent Information 19 4(D) Brochure and Brand Design Proposal 20 5. CONTRACT 22 6. RFP RESPONSE SUBMITTAL CHECKLIST 23 APPENDIX A – Sample Collateral 24 APPENDIX B – Sample Contract 25



1. INTRODUCTION 1(A) RFP Scope and Purpose SMG (“Operator”), as operator of the Cobo Center is seeking proposals from qualified and experienced firms with demonstrated ability in brochure and brand development interested in providing the following services:

A. Develop simple four page brochure that includes an additional middle page pull out of center floor plans. Provide useable, changeable electronic files of brochure.

B. Develop Cobo Center branding materials such as logo, brand image, tag line, suggested collateral design, messaging

In responding to part A of the RFP, respondents should be specific in identifying messaging, design and cost of the brochure. Cost should not exceed $10,000.

In regard to part B of the RFP, we are looking for creative suggestions on how to brand and market the new Cobo Center, as it emerges transformed by the ongoing facility and operational changes, into the event industry. The Cobo Center brand will promote Cobo Center as a regional, national and international meeting destination, and should make it easier for meeting planners to access and identify the facility for meetings, conventions, tradeshows and social events. We are looking for tools and ideas that will launch the branding campaign. An estimate of detailed and overall costs of the part B response must be included in the proposal.

Based on the responses received, the Operator may choose to select one company to contract for brochure design and another company for branding development. It is possible that one firm may be chosen for both parts A&B. It is the Operator’s preference that the selected firms provide all the services outlined directly; subcontractors will not be considered without the express permission of the Operator.

It is important that firms responding to this RFP are mindful that Operator staff are not designers, and do not necessarily speak the technical language of brand campaign design. As a result, portions of this RFP may not adequately address various fundamental technical functionalities. Any omission in this area is unintentional and is not intended to suggest that those fundamental items are unimportant. To the contrary, firms responding to this RFP should make a point to illustrate and assure the Operator that all fundamental technical functionalities will be part of the firm’s design, implementation and training plan.

In rating responses to this RFP, the Operator will consider how well each firm is able to take the contents of the RFP, ask relevant questions, extract critical information, address the various technical issues and clearly communicate its plan to design the simple brochure and brand design materials, while also meeting the objectives of the Operator.



1(B) Background The Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority:

The Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority (DRCFA) was formed on Sept. 15, 2009, transferring the operational control of Cobo Center from the City of Detroit to the DRCFA under a collaborative agreement by the Michigan State Legislature, the City of Detroit, and Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. Today, Cobo Center is managed by the DRCFA that is currently overseeing a $299 million facility expansion and upgrade that is scheduled for completion in 2014.

SMG:

In 2010, the DRCFA contracted with SMG (“Operator”) to manage the Cobo Center, including the authority to negotiate and contract for goods and services necessary for the successful management and operation of the facility.

Since 1977, SMG has provided management services to over 215 public assembly facilities including arenas, stadiums, theatres and performing arts centers, and convention, congress and exhibition centers. With facilities across the United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Canada, Europe and the Middle East, SMG manages more than 11 million square feet (1.1 million square meters) of exhibition space. As the recognized global industry leader, SMG provides construction and design consulting, pre-‐opening services, venue management, sales, marketing, event booking, and programming. SMG also offers food and beverage operations through an in house catering company, Savor…, currently servicing 65 accounts worldwide. For additional company information, visit www.smgworld.com.

Cobo Center:

The Cobo Center is located in Wayne County Michigan at the junction of Washington and Jefferson in the heart of Detroit’s beautiful downtown riverfront. Cobo Center is one of the largest convention centers in the nation with 2.4 million total square feet and offering 700,000 square feet of prime exhibit space in five exhibit halls ranging in size from 100,000 to 200,000 square feet.

The Mission of the Cobo Center is to generate significant economic benefits for the greater metropolitan Detroit area by hosting international, national and regional conventions and trade shows in our world-‐class facility.

The current expansion and upgrade of Cobo Center is designed to significantly improve customer experience. The Press Room on cobocenter.com has frequent updates with video, renderings, photographs, press releases and news articles of all capital improvement program phases.



1(C) Budget Part A: The budget range for the simple brochure design is not to exceed $10,000, inclusive of all electronic files and applicable fees and taxes.

Part B: There are no current cost parameters for the brand development design portion of the RFP, however, bidders should include overall and delineated costs for all materials and ideas included in Part B of their response.

1(D) Proposal Due Date Responses submitted in response to this RFP must be submitted to the address below by 2:00 PM Eastern Daylight Saving Time on Monday, August 12, 2011.

Mary Klida, Marketing and Communications Manager Cobo Center / SMG One Washington Blvd. Detroit, MI 48226 Email: [email protected]

Formats for submittal are as follows.

§ One (1) original hard copy

§ Two (2) additional hard copies

§ One (1) electronic copy (via email is fine)

The preferred format for the hard copy documents is 8 ½ x 11”, bound on the long side.

Proposals will not be accepted after the deadline for any reason; however, the Operator may request clarifications or additional information from the proposer after the deadline. Firms may withdraw their proposals to the Operator, either in writing or in person, if such withdrawal request is received prior to the deadline for the receipt of proposals.

All proposals and related materials shall become the property of the Operator upon delivery and shall be subject to public inspection at the conclusion of the selection process, unless exempt under RCW 42.56.

This RFP and the selected firm’s submittals, including all provisos, warranties, commitments, and representations set forth therein, will be binding upon the selected firm and, at the Operator’s option, may be incorporated into any Operator contract with the firm.

The Operator shall not be liable under any circumstances for any cost incurred by any firm in the preparation, revision, or presentation of any proposal in response to this RFP.



2. INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION

2(A) – Timeline may be modified at Operator’s discretion.

Day/Date Description

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Letter of Intent due from all firms who intend to respond to the RFP. Failure to submit a Letter of Intent may result in a firm’s disqualification.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Pre-‐proposal meeting and site visit to be held at the Cobo Center, Executive Offices, 10:00 AM EDST.

No later than Thursday, July 28, 2011

Written answers to applicable questions posed at the pre-‐proposal meeting distributed via email to all applicants.

Monday, August 1, 2011

Last day to submit written questions to the Operator. Written answers will be distributed via email by August 3, 2011 to all applicants.

Monday August 12, 2011 RFP responses due by 2:00pm EDST.

Week of August 15, 2011

Applicants’ responses will be analyzed and scored by the evaluation team.

Friday, August 19, 2011

A decision is made as to which firms will be finalists, or a single firm will be chosen to enter into negotiations with. All applicants will be notified of the Operator’s decision.

Week of August 22, 2011

Finalists’ references will be contacted at the Operator’s discretion.

Week of August 22, 2011 Finalist firm presentations at the Cobo Center. (Operator option)

No later than Monday, August 29,2011

Operator selection of brochure and brand development firm. (If not selected on August 19)

No later than Friday, September 2, 2011

Or Friday August 19 if single firm is chosen, contract signed. Notice of award sent to all applicants.



2(B) Contact Information The official contact person(s) for the purpose of this RFP are…

Primary Contact: Mary Klida, Marketing and Communications Manager Cobo Center / SMG One Washington Blvd. Detroit, MI 48226 Telephone: 313.877.8701 Fax: 313.877.8800 Email: [email protected] Secondary Contact: Woodrina Reid Cobo Center / SMG One Washington Blvd. Detroit, MI 48226 Telephone: 313.877.8216 Fax: 313.877.8800 Email: [email protected]

All communication with the Operator regarding this RFP must be directed to Mrs. Klida. 2(C) Letter of Intent Interested firms shall submit a letter of intent by Thursday, July 21, 2011 acknowledging receipt of the RFP and informing the Operator of their intent to respond to the RFP. The letter of intent may be submitted by fax or email to the official contact person, above. Firms should also provide the name, address, telephone, email address and facsimile numbers of the individual who can address inquiries related to this RFP and the firm’s proposal, and receive clarifications or addenda from the Operator. 2(D) Pre-‐Proposal Meeting Firms are strongly encouraged to attend a pre-‐proposal meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Tuesday, July 26, 2011 at the Cobo Center, at a time to be determined. (Please note that this date is subject to modification; all potential respondents will be duly advised of such within an ample time period to adjust schedules if such should occur). The purpose of this meeting will be to answer any questions pertaining to the proposal documents.



2(E) Questions and Amendments All questions regarding this RFP and submission requirements must be asked during the pre-‐proposal meeting or delivered in writing (via US Mail, fax or email) to the official contact person by 4:00 pm ESDT Friday, July 28, 2011. Written responses to all questions will be emailed to all firms who properly submitted a Letter of Intent.

Any amendment to this RFP will be sent to all firms who properly submitted a Letter of Intent. 2(F) Notices and Response Criteria This RFP has been compiled in good faith. The information contained within is selective and subject to the Operator’s updating, expansion, revision and amendment.

The Operator reserves the right to change any aspect of, terminate, or delay this RFP, the RFP process and/or the program which is outlined within this RFP at any time, and notice shall be given in a timely manner thereafter.

Recipients of this RFP are advised that nothing stated herein, or any part thereof, or any communication during the evaluation and selection process, shall be construed as constituting, offering or awarding a contract, representation or agreement of any kind between the Operator and any other party, save for a formal written contract, properly executed by both parties.

Responses to this RFP will become the property of the Operator, and will form the basis of negotiations of an agreement between the Operator and the apparent successful respondent.

The Operator is not liable and will not be responsible for any costs incurred by any firm(s) for the preparation and delivery of the RFP responses, nor will the Operator be liable for any costs incurred prior to the execution of an agreement, including but not limited to, presentations by RFP finalists to the Operator.

During the review of this document, please note the Operator’s emphasis on the expectations, qualities, and requirements necessary to be positioned as an RFP finalist and apparent successful firm.

It is important that firms responding to this RFP are mindful that Operator staff are not brochure and brand designers, and do not necessarily speak the technical language of brochure and brand design. As a result, portions of this RFP may not adequately address various fundamental technical functionalities. Any omission in this area is unintentional and is not intended to suggest that those fundamental items are unimportant. To the contrary, firms responding to this RFP should make a point to illustrate and assure the Operator that all fundamental technical functionalities will be part of the firm’s design, implementation and training plan.



NOTE: The following conditions apply to this RFP: 1. WAIVER OF MINOR ADMINISTRATIVE IRREGULARITIES The Operator reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to waive minor administrative irregularities contained in any proposal. 2. SINGLE RESPONSE A single response to the RFP may be deemed a failure of completion, and in the best interest of the Operator, the RFP may be cancelled. 3. PROPOSAL REJECTION; NO OBLIGATION The Operator reserves the right to reject any or all proposals at any time without penalty. The Operator reserves the right to refrain from contracting with any firm. The release of this RFP does not compel the Operator to enter into a contract. The Operator may elect to proceed further with this project by interviewing other proposers, or proceeding with an award. 4. WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSALS Vendors may withdraw a proposal that has been submitted at any time up to the proposal closing date and time. To accomplish this, a written request signed by an authorized representative of the firm must be submitted to the RFP Contact. The firm may submit another proposal at any time up to the proposal closing date and time. 5. NON-‐ENDORSEMENT As a result of the selection of a firm to supply products and/or services to the Operator, the Operator is neither endorsing nor suggesting that the firm's services are the best or only solution. The firm agrees to make no reference to the Operator in any literature, promotional material, brochures, sales presentation or the like without the express written consent of the Operator. 6. PROPRIETARY PROPOSAL MATERIAL Any information contained in the proposal that is deemed proprietary must be clearly designated. Marking the entire proposal as proprietary will be neither accepted nor honored. If a request is made to view a firm’s proposal, the Operator will comply according to the Open Public Records Act, chapter 42.56 RCW. If any information is marked as proprietary in the proposal, such information will not be made available until the affected firm has been given a reasonable opportunity to seek a court injunction against the requested disclosure. 7. RESPONSE PROPERTY OF THE OPERATOR All materials submitted in response to this request become the property of the Operator. Selection or rejection of a response does not affect this right.



8. ERRORS IN PROPOSAL The Operator will not be liable for any errors in firm proposals. Vendors will not be allowed to alter proposal documents after the deadline for proposal submission. The Operator reserves the right to make corrections or amendments due to errors identified in proposals by the Operator or the respondent. This type of correction or amendment will only be allowed for such errors as typing, transposition or any other obvious error. Firms are liable for all errors or omissions contained in their proposals. 9. BID BOND A bid bond is not required. 10. PERFORMANCE BOND A performance bond is not required. 11. RESPONSE INFORMATION Information regarding this Request for Proposals, including any addenda, is available by contacting Mary Klida, Marketing and Communications Manager, Cobo Center at 313.877.8701, or e-‐mail [email protected] or fax to 313.877.8800. 12. CONTRACT AWARD AND EXECUTION The Operator will select the proposal that, in its sole discretion, is the most advantageous to the Operator. The Operator reserves the right to make an award without further discussion of the proposal submitted. The Operator further reserves the right to ask for a best and final offer, but has no obligation to do so. Therefore, the proposal should be initially submitted on the most favorable terms the firm can offer.

The Operator shall attempt to negotiate a contract with the firm that offered the most advantageous proposal at a price that the Operator determines is fair and reasonable. If the Operator is unable to negotiate a satisfactory contract with the firm selected at a price the Operator determines to be fair and reasonable, negotiations with that firm shall be formally terminated and the Operator shall select the next best proposal, as solely determined by the Operator, and continue until an agreement is reached or the process is terminated. When evaluating a firm’s proposal, the following factors will be considered, any one of which will suffice to determine if a firm is either not a responsible respondent or if the firm’s proposal is not the most advantageous to the Operator:

1. Offering competitive pricing and services within the designated budget parameters.

2. The ability, capacity and skill of the firm to provide the services required.



3. The character, integrity, reputation, judgment, experience and efficiency of the firm.

4. The quality of performance of previous services, including, but not limited to, the firm’s failure to perform satisfactorily.

5. Evidence of collusion with any other firm, in which case colluding vendors may be restricted from submitting further bids on the subject project or future tenders.

6. The firm is not qualified for the work or to the full extent of the RFP. 7. There is uncompleted work with the Operator or others, or an outstanding

dispute on a previous or current contract that might hinder, negatively affect or prevent proper execution of the contract with the Operator.

8. The firm or a representative of the firm has been convicted of a crime arising from a previous public contract.

9. The firm or a representative of the firm has been convicted of a crime of moral turpitude or any felony. Vendors shall affirmatively disclose to the Operator all such convictions, especially of management personnel or the firm as an entity, prior to notice of award or execution of a contract, whichever comes first. Such disclosure shall not automatically be grounds for termination for default subsequent to award or execution of the contract. However, failure to make such affirmative disclosure shall be grounds, in the Operator’s sole option and discretion, for termination for default subsequent to award or execution of the contract.

10. The Operator concludes that the firm will be unable, financially or otherwise, to perform the work.

11. At the time of RFP opening, the firm is not authorized to do business in Michigan State or otherwise lacks a necessary license, registration or permit.

12. Access to the firm is difficult within a with Operator’s normal business hours (8am – 5pm, EDST).

13. Such other information as may be secured having a bearing on the decision to award the contract.

14. Any other reason deemed proper by the Operator.



2(G) RFP Cover Sheet Yes No Has your business entity operated at least three (3) years without interruption?

Has an owner or managing agent of your business entity been convicted of a crime within the past ten (10) years?

If selected, do you agree to execute a contract essentially the same in form as the sample contract attached in Section 5? (if no, this does not necessarily eliminate your firm from consideration, though this information may be used in the evaluation process):

If no, describe differences: Has your company been in bankruptcy, reorganization or receivership in the last five (5) years? Has your company been disqualified by any public agency from participation in public contracts?

Is your company licensed to do business in the State of Michigan?

Undersigned acknowledges that addenda _____ through _____ have been taken into Undersigned acknowledges that addenda _____ through _____ have been taken into

account as part of this requirement.account as part of this requirement. The undersigned hereby accepts the terms and conditions as set forth herein. The undersigned hereby accepts the terms and conditions as set forth herein. This This page must be s igned and page must be s igned and dated by the dated by the f irmfirm or a representative legal ly authorized to bind or a representative legal ly authorized to bind the the f irmfirm ..

FULL LEGAL NAME OF COMPANY TYPE OF BUSINESS

o Corporation o Partnership (general) o Partnership (limited)

o Sole Proprietorship o Limited Liability Company

ADDRESS

CITY/STATE/ZIP

EMAIL ADDRESS

PHONE FAX NAME TITLE SIGNATURE __________________________________



2(H) Non-‐Collusion Certification

COBO CENTER RFP No. 11-‐500

Brochure and brand Development Services

NON-‐COLLUSION CERTIFICATION

I certify that this response is made without prior understanding, agreement, or connection with any corporation, firm, or person submitting an offer for this Request for Proposals, and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud. The below signed firm has not divulged to nor discussed or compared his/her response with other vendors and has not colluded with any other firm or any other parties to this RFP whatsoever. Company Name: Mailing Address: City-‐State-‐Zip: Date: Authorized Signature: (Written) Authorized Signature: (typed / printed) Title:



2(I) RFP No Response Form

COBO CENTER RFP No. 11-‐500

Brochure and Brand Development Services No Response Form

Dear Prospective Firm: If you decide not to submit a response to this RFP, we would very much appreciate your completing and returning this form for our records. Reason for not submitting a response in response to this solicitation:

FULL LEGAL NAME OF COMPANY

ADDRESS

CITY/STATE/ZIP

EMAIL ADDRESS:

PHONE FAX NAME (PLEASE PRINT) TITLE

SIGNED DATE Thank you for your assistance. Please email or fax this document to:

Cobo Center Attn: Mary Klida, Marketing and Communications Manager

One Washington Blvd. Detroit, MI 48226

Fax: (313) 877-‐8800



2(J) RFP Evaluation Criteria An evaluation team composed of the General Manager, the Director of Sales, Marketing Manager and/or other parties at the Operator’s discretion, will evaluate the RFP responses received from each firm. Prior to the selection of the award to the apparent successful firm, the Operator reserves the right to require any firm to participate in a presentation to the evaluation team of items contained in the RFP response and any other items deemed appropriate by the Operator. If an award is made as a result of this RFP, it shall be awarded to the firm whose proposal is most advantageous to the Operator. Firm selection will be dependent upon responses to the RFP questions; demonstrated ability and expertise; financial stability; reference calls and/or recommendations; presentations to the Operator evaluation team and others (if applicable); product samples which the Operator may, at its discretion, request as part of the selection process; and, any additional criteria deemed appropriate by the Operator which would lend itself to establishing the firm’s ability to perform the work as outlined in this RFP. Value for price will be a consideration in the negotiations with the apparent successful firm.



3. SCOPE OF SERVICES The firm(s) selected to provide brochure and/or brand development services shall be prepared to perform its obligations in a prompt, diligent, cost effective and professional manner. Respondents should have at least three (3) years of successful experience in brochure and brand development.

The Operator expects the selected firm(s) to provide the following services:

§ Design a simple brochure for Cobo Center as outlined in the RFP

§ Provide Cobo Center with a high res electronic copy of the brochure that meets all printing specifications

§ Outline development of creative brand materials and relative costs

3(A) Audience

The primary audiences for the Cobo Center brochure and brand materials are event planners (i.e. convention planners, association executives, social event planners, trade & public show producers, government meeting planners, freelance meeting management companies, etc…).

Secondarily, the general public will utilize the brochure and brand for basic event related information, and for booking information for their parties, weddings, graduations, etc…

Branding materials may be used by the event industry media that go to the cobocenter.com Press Room for information. All information found in the Press Room includes the Cobo Center brand.

Additional secondary audiences are political organizations, local news media and construction/vendor companies.

3(B) Look, Feel & Layout

The brochure and branding materials for Cobo Center should be informative, professional, compelling and innovative. Copy should be minimal. Graphics art development will be the responsibility of the awarded company with the Operator providing relevant pictures and logos.



Links to websites that do many of these things well are below.

Convention Center brands:

§ http://www.charlotteconventionctr.com/

§ http://minneapolisconventioncenter.com/

§ http://www.miamibeachconvention.com/

§ http://www.dcconvention.com/

§ http://denverconvention.com/

§ http://www.bccenter.org/

§ http://www.ctconventions.com/

§ http://www.meydenbauer.com/

§

Other brands designs:

§ http://www.ste-‐michelle.com/

§ http://www.kielmortgage.com/index.shtml

§ http://thewineryrestaurant.net/

§ http://www.lynfredwinery.com/

3(C) Tools & Functionalities

Firms responding to this RFP should make a point to illustrate and assure the Operator that all fundamental technical functionalities will be part of the firm’s design and implementation plan.

1. In-‐House Updating: The new brochure and brand materials should include simple and obvious means for the Operator to change and content manage the electronic materials.

2. Low cost application: Designs that have lower print costs and can be easily included in any software or web base application will be highly considered.

3. Versatility: We are looking for branding materials that are versatile enough to use in sales presentations, event promotions, media releases, center promotions, websites and anywhere our brand is applied.

4. Simplicity of design: We are looking for designs that reduce printing costs, are easily included in all documents with any software, and support Green efforts.

5. Creative Application: Bids with a high degree of creativity and employment of innovative technology will be favored.



6. Web compatibility: The Operator must be able to easily include all branding materials into Cobo Center’s websites and social media campaigns.

7. Smartphone capability: All Branding materials must be smart phone graphic compatible.

8. Vector files: Branding materials may be used for center banner signage. Hi res and vector files must be included in the branding materials.

4. SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS The proposer shall complete and submit one (1) original hard copy, two (2) additional hard copies, and one (1) electronic copy of its proposal. All original submissions shall be signed by the proposer. Unsigned submissions will be rejected. Submissions transmitted by facsimile means will not be accepted or reviewed.

All submissions for management services must follow the required format and address all requirements listed in the prescribed order using the prescribed numbering system. Failure to follow the required format may result in disqualification of a submission.

4(A) Table of Contents Proposers must include a table of contents which lists sections and subsections with page numbers that follow the organization and sequence of their submission. 4(B) Introduction The introduction should include the following items:

§ A fully executed RFP cover sheet. See Section 2(G) § The identity of the proposing firm and any partners or consultants included as

part of the response. § The names of individuals involved in the preparation of the RFP response along

with their relationship to the proposing firm. § A statement confirming that the respondent has sole and complete responsibility

for providing the services as defined in the RFP and any addenda issued to this RFP.

§ A statement signed by a representative authorized to legally bind the respondent, which shall include an identification of the respondent as a corporation or other legal entity.

§ A fully executed non-‐collusion certification. See Section 2(H).



4(C) Respondent Information The proposal shall include the following information about the firm:

1. Organization: Data describing the proposing firm’s current organization, ownership, legal entity designation (corporation, LLC, etc…), address, number of years in business, size of business, and services offered. Provide a diagram showing the hierarchical structure of functions and positions within the organization, and a statement of personnel diversity that includes ratios of gender and race.

2. Relevant Experience:

Describe the firm’s overall qualifications to fulfill the requirements of this RFP, including experience in designing and implementing a brochure and brand and providing training for Cobo Center staff to content manage the brochure and branding materials.

Identify key personnel who will work on this project and provide their qualifications and experience related to the requested services. Response should address the following:

a. Names of Key Person(s) who will be performing the work and their responsibilities;

b. Extent of Key Person(s) involvement on this project;

c. Names of other person(s) who will have substantial involvement with the project;

d. Qualifications and relevant individual experience for all personnel; e. Short description of experience on similar or related projects.

f. Description of experience with convention center, stadium and event center brochure and brand design.

Provide a listing of comparable brochure and brand projects that the firm has designed within the last five (5) years.

3. References: Include the names of five (5) references that have contracted with the respondent for brochure and brand design. Provide the following for each reference: name, title, name of organization, address and telephone number, email address, brochure and brand address, as well as a brief description of the services provided if they are not included in the Summary of Relevant Experience.



4(D) Brochure and Brand Design Proposal The proposal shall include the following minimum information about the brochure and brand design, and training services for the Cobo Center staff to content manage.

1. Management Philosophy:

Describe the firm’s overall organizational and management philosophy and how that philosophy manifests itself in each of the firm’s brochure and brand design projects. Describe the general steps and actions you will take to complete this project.

2. Customer Service:

Describe the firm’s customer service philosophy and how that philosophy will be implemented as part of this project.

3. Technical Submittal:

a. Development Process: Explain the process you will follow to develop the brochure and brand, including major milestones and evaluation process.

b. Schedule of Deliverables: Firms must propose an implementation timeline. This timeline should include the time required for each phase of implementation, beginning with completion of contract negotiations.

c. Technical Information: Address any important technology information and specifications used in your solution (languages, platform, etc.).

d. Security: Describe how your proposal and recommendations affect security, privacy, confidentiality.

e. Support: Describe your approach to documentation, support and training.

f. Resources: Proposals should also include a description of the resources of both the firm and the Operator staff required in order to ensure a successful implementation.

4. Pricing:

a. Brochure and Brand Design, Implementation & Training:

Based on the bid responses, the Operators may decide to contract multiple vendors for suggested services, or choose a single company for all services.

The pricing for Part A of the RFP, the brochure design, should not exceed $10,000.

For Part B of the RFP, Brand Design Development, firms can present pricing proposals in pricing ranges. The ranges should reflect total fees based on the potential mix of content, services and features including, but not limited to page count, brand design, design complexity, Flash, copy writing,



forms, electronic file creation, content management development and training, etc.

Proposals should include a payment schedule.

b. Other Charges: Identify any other fees (licensing, photography, etc…) anticipated to complete this project and maintain the brochure and brand after launch on an ongoing basis.

5. Other:

Describe any other services or strengths the firm would use to improve the functionality of the new Cobo Center brand.



5. CONTRACT The Operator intends to use the contract attached in Appendix B as the primary vehicle to define the relationship between the selected firm and the Operator. The Operator wishes to contract with the firm who offers the most advantageous proposal at a price which the Operator determines is most fair and reasonable. Therefore, each respondent is encouraged to suggest changes to the proposed contract which would best reflect the interests of the Operator. The Operator may enter negotiations with one or more final proposers to finalize contract terms and conditions. In the event negotiations are not successful, the Operator may initiate negotiations with the next ranking proposers or reject proposals.



6. RFP RESPONSE SUBMITTAL CHECKLIST Each firm shall submit a response in the following format:

1. Each firm shall create one (1) original response (labeled “original”) with original signature and two (2) identical copies (for a total of three (3) hard copy responses), and one (1) electronic copy.

2. The original and each of the two (2) identical copies shall be sent to the official contact person at the address shown in Section 2(B), on or before the due date shown in Section 1(D) and in a box of sufficient size to hold all the responses. The electronic copy should be emailed to the official contact person at the email address shown in Section 2(B).

3. The original and each of the two (2) copies shall be organized as described in

Section 4: Table of Contents

Introduction Respondent information Brochure and brand design proposal

This checklist is intended merely as an aid to the firm in providing a response to this RFP. The firm retains the sole responsibility for accuracy and completeness of the response.



APPENDIX A (Sample Collateral) CoboAd:



APPENDIX B (Sample Contract)

BROCHURE AND BRAND DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT #xxx COBO CENTER

WHERAS SMG, dba the Cobo Center - SMG (“Operator”), entered into an agreement with the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority (DRCFA) to manage, market and operate the Cobo Center located at One Washington Blvd., Detroit, MI, 48226 ("Facility"), including the authority to negotiate and contract for services and products pertaining to the management and operation of the FACILITY.

This Brochure and brand Development Agreement (“Agreement”) is made this xx day of xxx, 2011, by and between Operator and xxx, located at xxxxx (“Contractor”).

WHEREAS, Operator has selected Contractor, pursuant to a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP #xxx) process, conducted in April and May of 2011, to provide brochure and brand development services for the redesign of Operator’s current brochure and brand, subject to the terms and conditions contained herein, and WHEREAS, Contractor desires to provide brochure and brand development services for Operator for the redesign of Operator’s current brochure and brand, subject to the terms and conditions contained herein. NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. TERM OF AGREEMENT. The effective dates of this Agreement shall begin upon execution of the Agreement, and shall continue until the final phase is completed.

2. TERMINATION. This Agreement may be terminated at any time by either party with ten (10) days written notice, or the mutual agreement of the parties, or if any party becomes insolvent, files a petition in bankruptcy, makes an assignment for the benefit of its creditors, or breaches any of its material responsibilities or obligations under this Agreement, which breach is not remedied within ten (10) days from receipt of written notice of such breach. Upon termination of this Agreement each party shall return or, at the disclosing party’s request, destroy any confidential information of the other party.

3. FEE AND PAYMENT SCHEDULE. Operator will pay Contractor a total sum NOT TO

EXCEED $xxx. Payment shall be disbursed as follows.

a. $xxx deposit upon execution of this Agreement b. $xxx due upon presentation by Contractor, and approval and acceptance by

Operator, of initial visual design concepts, including up to three (3) rounds of design revision as needed

c. $xxx due upon completion of brochure and brand design and development, but prior to activation/launch

d. $xxx balance to be retained by Operator for up-to 30 days post activation/launch

4. SCOPE OF WORK. The Contractor scope of work shall be consistent with Contractor’s written proposal submitted in response to RFP#xxx, attached as Exhibit A (“Proposal”). Specifically, Contractor’s scope of work shall entail all items included in the Proposal, and shall be completed within the time frame included in the Proposal.

5. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS AND REGULATIONS. Contractor will comply with all laws,

ordinances and regulations adopted or established by the United States, the State of



Michigan, Wayne County, or local governmental agencies or bodies; and by all facility policies and procedures as provided by Operator, and Contractor will require that its agents or employees likewise so comply.

6. INDEMNITY. Contractor will indemnify and hold harmless the Operator, DRCFA, and

each of their employees, officers, agents, owners, successors and assignees (collectively, the “Indemnities”), from and against any and all claims, damages, expenses, costs, fees (including legal fees), charges, losses and liabilities arising out of or relating to (i) the brochure and brand development activities, and any services provided by Contractor, or any third party in connection with the brochure and brand development activities, (ii) the breach by Contractor of any agreements, representations, warranties or covenants set forth herein, and (iii) any acts or omissions by Contractor or its employees, agents, or others. Contractor will defend any claim brought against the Indemnities for which Contractor is obligated to provide indemnification, and Contractor will not settle such claim without the consent of Operator. The provisions of this section will survive any expiration or termination of the Agreement.

7. COPYRIGHTS. Operator represents, warrants and covenants to Contractor that (a) Operator owns all right, title, and interest in, or otherwise has full right and authority to permit the use of the Operator content, (b) to the best of Operator’s knowledge, the Operator content does not infringe the rights of any third party, and use of the Operator content as well as any trademarks in connection with this Agreement does not and will not violate the rights of any third parties, (c) Operator shall comply with the terms and conditions of any licensing agreements which govern the use of third party materials. All original artwork and content provided by Operator to Contractor are the exclusive property of Operator. In addition, any and all variations or modifications of Operator’s original artwork are considered WORKS MADEFORHIRE, and all such modified works remain the exclusive property of Operator. And as such, said modified works, or any works similar to Operator’s original artwork or modified works, cannot ever be claimed or used by Contractor or any individual person (including but not limited to the person who created any modifications or similarities), now or anytime in the future.

8. OWNERSHIP. Upon execution of this Agreement, Operator will own any and all digital

work created by Contractor in the fulfillment of its obligations under this Agreement, including all text, photos and coding. Contractor will not copyright any work completed for Contractor in Contractor’s name.

9. ACCREDITATION AND PROMOTION. All displays or publications of the brochure and brand shall bear accreditation notice in Contractor's name along with a link to Contractor's brochure and brand in the form, size and location as incorporated into the brochure and brand by Contractor with Operator's approval of the form, size, location and implementation. Contractor retains the right to reproduce, publish and display the brochure and brand in Contractor’s portfolios and brochure and brands, and in galleries, design periodicals and other media or exhibits for the purposes of recognition of creative excellence or professional advancement, and to be credited with design of the brochure and brand in connection with such uses. Either party, subject to the other’s reasonable approval, may describe its role in relation to the Agreement and, if applicable, the services provided to the other party on its brochure and brand and in other promotional materials, and, if not expressly objected to, include a link to the other party’s brochure and brand.

10. CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION. Each party acknowledges that in connection with this Agreement it may receive certain confidential or proprietary technical and business information and materials of the other party, including without limitation Preliminary Works (“Confidential Information”). Each party, its agents and employees shall hold and maintain in strict confidence all Confidential Information, shall not disclose Confidential



Information to any third party, and shall not use any Confidential Information except as may be necessary to perform its obligations under the Agreement except as may be required by a court or governmental authority. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Confidential Information shall not include any information that is in the public domain or becomes publicly known through no fault of the receiving party, or is otherwise properly received from a third party without an obligation of confidentiality.

11. FORCE MAJEURE. Except as otherwise provided herein, neither party will be obligated

to perform, and neither party will be deemed to be in default of its performance, if prevented by an occurrence outside of its reasonable control (a “force majeure”), including but not limited to (a) a fire, earthquake, hurricane, wind, flood, power outage, act of God, riot, or civil commotion occurring at the Center, (b) any law, ordinance, rule, regulation, or order of any public or military authority stemming from the existence of economic or energy controls, hostilities, war, or governmental law and regulation, or (c) technology forces outside of Contractor’s control. It is provided that this agreement may be terminated for any one or more such reasons by written notice from one party to the other without liability.

12. SUIT TO ENFORCE. Should Operator institute suit or other action against Contractor as

a result of Contractor’s failure to comply with any term of this Agreement, Operator will be entitled to recover, in addition to any damages or other remedy awarded, all legal costs and attorneys’ fees incurred in connection with Operator’s enforcement of its rights hereunder.

13. NON-ASSIGNMENT. Contractor may not assign, transfer or sublet this Agreement or

any of its rights or obligations hereunder, without Operator’s prior written approval. Any purported assignment in violation of this provision will be null and void.

14. LIMITATION ON LIABILITY. Operator will not be liable under any circumstances to

Contractor or to any third party for any indirect, special, punitive or consequential damages, or loss of revenue or profits, arising in connection with this Agreement, even if a party has been advised of the possibility of such damages. This waiver will be enforced to the maximum extent permitted by law.

15. COMPLETE AGREEMENT. All terms and conditions of this Agreement will be binding

upon the parties, their heirs or representatives and assignees, and cannot be waived by any oral representation or promise of any agent or other representative of the pauses hereto unless the same is in writing and signed by a duly authorized representative of such party.

16. NOTICES. All notices required or permitted to be given pursuant to this Agreement will

be in writing and delivered personally or sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, or by generally recognized, prepaid, overnight air courier services, to the address set forth above. The designation of the individuals to be so notified and the addresses of such parties set forth above may be changed from time to time by written notice to the other party in the manner set forth above.

17. SEVERABILITY. If a court of competent jurisdiction determines that any term of this

Agreement is invalid or unenforceable to any extent under applicable law, the remainder of this Agreement (and the application of this Agreement to other circumstances) will not be affected thereby, and each remaining term will be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

18. PRIOR AGREEMENTS. This Agreement incorporates and includes all prior negotiations,

correspondence, conversations, agreements, and understandings concerning the subject matter hereof. Accordingly, the parties agree that no deviation from the terms hereof will



be predicated upon any prior representations, agreements or understandings, whether oral or written.

19. GOVERNING LAW. The Agreement is entered into under and pursuant to, and is to be

construed and enforceable in accordance with, the laws of the State of Washington, without regard to its conflict of laws principles.

20. AMENDMENTS. Neither this Agreement nor any of its terms may be changed or

modified, waived, or terminated (unless as otherwise provided hereunder) except by an instrument in writing signed by an authorized representative of the party against whom the enforcement of the change, waiver, or termination is sought.

21. WAIVER; REMEDIES. No failure or delay by a party hereto to insist on the strict

performance of any term of this Agreement, or to exercise any right or remedy consequent to a breach thereof, will constitute a waiver of any breach or any subsequent breach of such term. No waiver of any breach hereunder will affect or alter the remaining terms of this Agreement, but each and every term of this Agreement will continue in full force and effect with respect to any other then existing or subsequent breach thereof. The remedies provided in this Agreement are cumulative and not exclusive of the remedies provided by law or in equity.

22. NO AGENCY. The relationship between Operator and Contractor is that of independent

contractors and not agents or employees. Under no circumstances shall this agreement be considered a contract of partnership or joint venture. Neither party shall be liable for any of the debts, accounts, obligations or other liabilities of the other party, its agents or employees, and neither party shall have any authority to obligate or bind the other party in any manner except as may be expressly provided herein.

23. APPROVAL OF CONTRACT. This contract will not be in force or effective until signed

by authorized representatives of both parties hereto. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed by an authorized representative the day and year first set forth above.

OPERATOR: CONTRACTOR: COBO CENTER-SMG_________________ ___________________________________ By: ________________________________ By: ___________________________________ (Principal Officer’s Signature) (Principal Officer’s Signature) Printed Name: __________________ Printed Name: Title: _____________________________ Title: __

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